How to Choose the Right Yacht for Your Sailing Holiday Abroad

Planning a sailing vacation abroad? Once you've gathered your crew — family, friends, or fellow sailors — and finally locked in dates that work for everyone, it’s time to choose the yacht that will make your trip unforgettable.

Experienced charter guests know: booking early secures better availability, wider selection, and attractive early booking discounts. But how do you decide which yacht is right for you? Here are the main factors to consider before you book.

Monohull or Catamaran? What You Need to Know

In recent years, catamarans have become increasingly popular. The key differences between a monohull and a catamaran come down to sailing performance and onboard comfort.

If you’re after a classic sailing experience that maximizes wind performance — a monohull is your best bet. But if space, comfort, and that “floating home” feel are your priorities, a catamaran is probably the way to go.

Catamarans offer a single-level layout where the saloon, kitchen, and cockpit flow seamlessly, creating a unique social atmosphere. They also typically feature four double cabins, regardless of whether they’re 40 or 46 feet long. However, their width (up to 8 meters) means you'll need more dock space, and their twin engines offer great maneuverability at the cost of higher fuel consumption.

Monohulls, by comparison, are narrower (around 4.5 meters) and offer more diverse cabin arrangements — ideal if your crew includes more than just couples.

Pro tip: On most yachts, the saloon converts into an additional berth. Be sure to confirm this with your charter company if you’re counting on the extra space.

Yacht Models and Key Features to Consider

While most charter yachts come from large production lines, subtle differences between models and brands can impact your sailing experience.

For example, a monohull with twin steering wheels can be harder to maneuver than a single-helm model — an important point in tight marinas or strong winds, especially for less experienced skippers.

A bow thruster (an electric maneuvering aid usually installed on yachts over 40 feet) can make docking much easier.

Sail configuration is another factor: a furling mainsail is much easier to handle and reef while sailing, but it can sometimes jam.

Other features — like a drop-down swim platform or an outdoor grill — may not seem critical, but they can seriously upgrade your onboard experience.

What About Your Crew?

Your crew’s sailing experience plays a big role in your yacht choice. If you’re sailing with an inexperienced team, it’s better to stick with a yacht model you know well, reducing the margin for error.

With a seasoned crew, you can be more adventurous and try out different yachts.

Also, consider space and layout: a crew of eight will feel much more comfortable on a 40-foot catamaran than on a 40-foot monohull, where space will be much tighter.

Budget – How Much Will It Cost?

Your charter price mainly depends on three factors: the yacht’s age, its size, and the season.

Every destination has its high and low seasons — with significant price differences between them. Generally, catamarans are more expensive than similarly sized monohulls, and newer yachts cost more.

It’s worth noting: an older yacht isn’t necessarily a bad one. Always check the boat’s condition with the charter company before confirming your booking.

 

In Summary

The global yacht charter market — especially in the Mediterranean — offers a wide range of well-maintained, high-quality boats. The key is finding the yacht that fits your needs, experience level, and budget.

For more tips on yacht types, charter advice, and Mediterranean sailing destinations, visit Sea Time – Yacht Charter in the Mediterranean.